Marcus Horan returns to action for Munster for his first game since the Heineken Cup match with Bourgoin and he is joined in the front row by Frank Sheahan, the only two changes in the pack from the side that started against Ulster last weekend.

In the backline, coach Alan Gaffney has opted for new half-back combination where Conrad O'Sullivan and Frank Murphy team up for the first time this season. Injury means that neither Anthony Horgan or Rob Henderson are available which means that John Kelly will be partnered in the centre by Jason Holland with Shaun Payne and Mossie Lawler occupying the wing berths.

Christian Cullen wears the no 15 jersey for the third successive game. Christian Cullen; Shaun Payne, John Kelly, Jason Holland, Mossie Lawler; Conrad O’Sullivan, Frank Murphy; Marcus Horan, Frank Sheahan, Gordon McIlwham; David Pusey, Tom Hayes; Stephen Keogh, David Wallace, Jim Williams capt.

Replacements: Jerry Flannery, Frank Roche, Eddie Halvey, Peter Malone, Eoin Reddan, Jason Jones-Hughes/Keith Matthews, Martin McPhail.

Munster v Gwent Dragons Celtic League Venue: Thomond Park. Date: Friday, March 12th. Kick Off: 19:30 (GMT).